Simple Resources for Artists, Makers & Creative Entrepreneurs
Simple resources, art show guides, and real-world lessons from California Artist Lisa Ramos of MONOLISA.
2026 Show Directory
Browse California art shows, wine festivals, and handmade events.
Shows By Season
Find California art events by season throughout the year.
Lisa’s Favorite Shows
Curated California shows based on real experience.
Vendor Opportunities
Resources for artists looking for shows, festivals, and pop-up opportunities.
MONOLISA Shows
See upcoming MONOLISA art shows and festival appearances.
Helpful Reads for Artists & Makers
Simple articles about art shows, handmade business, creativity, and lessons learned from real experience.
How I Built a Handmade Business
A simple roadmap showing the steps, systems, lessons, and resources that helped me build MONOLISA through 200+ California art shows and festivals.
Handmade Business Starter Guide
A quick visual overview of the major stages involved in building a handmade business.
Why I Reduced Large Art Festivals by 70%
After 200+ art shows, I learned that attendance numbers don't tell the whole story. Lessons about logistics, profitability, energy, safety, and building a sustainable business.
How Choosing the Right Vehicle Changed My Handmade Business
After 200+ art shows, I learned that choosing the right vehicle impacts far more than transportation. Lessons about organization, efficiency, comfort, security, and planning for growth.
Is Handmade Becoming Harder to Find?
After more than 200 art shows, I share my observations on rising artist costs, imported goods, changing festivals, and why transparency matters to both artists and shoppers.
Tools I Use to Run MONOLISA
Software, services, education, bookkeeping, marketing, website tools, and business resources I use to run MONOLISA.
Social Media for Handmade Businesses: Is It Worth the Time?
A personal look at social media, website ownership, and the business decisions that shaped MONOLISA.
Why Bigger Isn't Always Better
After 200+ art shows, I learned that sustainable growth isn't always about doing more. Lessons about profit, time, health, and building a business that supports your life.
3 Essentials to Help with Sales at an Art Show
Simple ideas that support better customer interaction and sales.
Art Show Booth Equipment Guide
Booth setup essentials, dollies, portable Wi-Fi, tent weights, comfort tools, and real-world equipment tips from 200+ California art shows.
10 Tips for Selling at Art Shows
Practical lessons from years of participating in California events.
Artist Life – 20 Things I Do to Run My Business
A behind-the-scenes look at managing a handmade business.
Getting Your Work into Art Shows
Applications, jurying, and participation explained simply.
Lessons Doing Art Shows
Real lessons from years of outdoor art shows and festivals.
Business Podcast Interview
Real-world conversations about art shows, handmade business, and building a collector base..
The Funny Side of Business
Unexpected and humorous moments from doing art shows.
A Day in the Life of an Entrepreneur
Behind-the-scenes moments from participating in art shows.
Artist Resources Managed by California Artist Lisa Ramos, creator of the handmade MONOLISA Collection, who has participated in over 200 California art shows and festivals.
